Recently, I watched two of Tom Hank’s Academy Award nominated films, both of which were deserving in different ways. I loved the backstory of Mary Poppins in Saving Mr. Banks and the performances by the cast were stellar. Equally as impressive however, was the meticulous detail to all things vintage in this film: the iconic Los Angeles landmarks, the furniture and set design, the vintage Disney souvenirs, and even the food. You’re right, I notice these things.

As a Southern California resident, I’ve been to Disneyland countless times. Rides and attractions, save for a select few, come and go as do the food choices. I can honestly say I’ve never eaten at the Blue Bayou restaurant, but according to its menu, the Monte Cristo sandwich has been a favorite since 1967.

How I’ve lived the better part of forty-seven years without ever tasting a Monte Cristo sandwich, let alone the famous one from Disneyland, I’ll never know, but I knew after seeing the picture, I had to recreate it in my own kitchen. Perhaps wearing my Minnie Mouse ears 😀

In honor of Walt Disney’s legacy and to the man who brought him alive in Saving Mr. Banks, this Monte Cristo is for you. “That’s what we storytellers do. We restore order with imagination. We instill hope again and again and again.” ~ Walt Disney

Spread slices of bread with mustard and layer the ham and cheese. Mix the eggs with milk, vanilla, and spices and dip each sandwich into the mixture until fully coated. On a hot, oiled griddle, brown each side of the sandwiches. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

For the fruit sauce:

I used frozen blueberries, but you can use any berry mixture. Disneyland serves theirs with currant jelly, but I’m veering off the path here:
1 package frozen berry
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 to 1/2 cup of orange juice

Over high heat, cover the frozen berries with the orange juice and sugar. Boil rapidly and let the mixture reduce over medium heat. Serve along side the Monte Cristo for dipping.